TRENTON, NJ – Governor Phil Murphy has declared a statewide State of Emergency effective at midnight, citing an imminent threat to food security after the Trump Administration suspended federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits.
According to a report in left-leaning Politico, “Senate Democrats rejected the House-passed, GOP-led stopgap for the 13th time Tuesday, as the pain from the government shutdown is poised to escalate by week’s end. Lawmakers voted 54-45 on the funding patch, which would float federal operations through Nov. 21.”
The move, announced late Thursday, comes amid a federal funding standoff in which Senate Democrats, including New Jersey Senators Cory Booker and Andy Kim, voted against a temporary resolution to fund the government through the end of November.
The suspension immediately affects more than 800,000 New Jersey residents who rely on SNAP for food assistance.
Key Points
- Governor Murphy declared a State of Emergency effective November 1 due to a federal halt on SNAP benefits.
- The suspension leaves 800,000 residents — including children, seniors, and people with disabilities — without food aid.
- The state will mobilize resources to maintain food access through local networks and emergency programs.
State mobilizes resources amid federal impasse
Executive Order No. 402 authorizes a coordinated statewide response to the lapse in federal benefits, directing agencies to take emergency action to prevent hunger and protect public health. Murphy said the suspension represents “a clear and present threat” to residents’ welfare.
“With more than 800,000 New Jerseyans relying on SNAP to put food on the table, the Trump Administration’s decision to suspend benefits has created a clear and present threat to the health and safety of our residents,” Murphy said in a statement. “We will not stand by while families face hunger.”
Families urged to use existing funds and school meal programs
Although no new federal funds will be issued starting November 1, SNAP recipients may still use any remaining balances from October or prior months. Families already receiving state-level nutrition assistance will continue to get those limited benefits.
Children in households enrolled in NJ SNAP remain automatically eligible for free school meals without additional paperwork. Parents are encouraged to ensure their children receive breakfast and lunch at their local schools.
State expands emergency food network
Murphy’s declaration allows state agencies and community partners to activate emergency food distribution networks, expand food bank capacity, and support local pantries offering both perishable and non-perishable foods.
Residents seeking assistance are urged to visit nj211.org, NJFamiliesFirst.com, or njsnap.gov for real-time updates on benefit status and local food resources.
The governor’s office said the emergency order will remain in effect until federal SNAP funding is restored.